Uzbekistan faces backlash over luxury resort plan at key water source
Proposed Sea Breeze complex near Charvak reservoir sparks public outcry over water security, environmental risks, and lack of transparency
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — A proposed luxury resort project on the banks of Uzbekistan’s Charvak reservoir has triggered mounting public concern over its environmental impact and the lack of public consultation in its planning.
The project, titled Sea Breeze Uzbekistan, is being spearheaded by Azerbaijani businessman Emin Agalarov. It will span up to 700 hectares and include hotels, pools, restaurants, shops, sports areas, and a bridge connecting both sides of the reservoir. The site is also expected to host cultural festivals and concerts.
The project was first presented to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in December 2024 and its master plan reviewed in April 2025, according to The Times of Central Asia. Since then, the initiative has sparked intense debate on social media under the hashtag #SaveChorvoq, with many questioning how such a large-scale project reached this stage without any open public discourse.
Local Environmental blogger Mutabar Khushvaqtova released a viral Instagram video compiling expert views on the risks to Charvak’s delicate water balance and biodiversity.
“Sustainable planning must come first,” said Temur Ahmedov, an eco-construction specialist. “Tashkent already has over 3.5 million people, and New Tashkent is on the rise. If Charvak’s balance is disturbed, the region faces a major water crisis.”
Natural sciences expert Dr. Yulduzkhon Abdullaeva warned that the area is home to rare plant and animal species and that the project’s demands on water and transport could severely disrupt the ecosystem. “Pools and fountains will draw directly from the reservoir. An environmental impact assessment must be carried out—and if the results are negative, the project should be cancelled,” she urged.
Urban planner Iskandar Soliyev raised doubts about the developer’s promises, including claims of installing water purification systems before construction begins. “These kinds of promises are often broken. Once the work starts, enforcement becomes nearly impossible,” he said.
Other experts like Alisher Khudoyberdiev, a hydrometeorology researcher, warned that increased motorboat activity and tourism waste could pollute Charvak’s waters, which supply both drinking water and irrigation for farmland.
The controversy has also struck a nerve over social inequality. Blogger Samandar Nizomov criticized the idea of exclusive VIP zones, writing, “Why let the wealthy enjoy Charvak while others are left out? It’s our shared resource—not a private beach.”
Although the Ministry of Ecology is reviewing the proposal, full documentation has yet to be released.
With growing pressure from citizens, experts, and even government advisors, many are calling for immediate transparency, proper environmental review, and meaningful public engagement before any irreversible steps are taken near one of Uzbekistan’s most vital water sources.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
